George F. “Duner” Wargo, 87, of Streator passed away Thursday, October 17, 2024 at the ARC of Streator.

  Funeral services will be at 6:00 P.M. Monday, October 21st at the Solon-Telford Funeral Home, Streator. 

   A visitation will be from 3-6 P.M. Monday, October 21st at the Solon-Telford Funeral Home, Streator. 

  Cremation rites will be accorded following the services.  Private family burial will be at a later date at the Old St. Stephen’s Cemetery, Streator.

  Born August 15, 1937 in Streator he was the son of George “Dutch” and Mary (Harcharik) Wargo.  He was married to Joann McMillin.

  Duner was a cherished father to daughters, Christine (Eric) Isermann of Streator, Kelly Wargo of Bourbonnais and Devon McCormick of Arizona; and to his son, Dutch (Keri) Wargo of Chicago; He dearly loved and was so very   proud of his grandchildren, Sadie (Brett) Gee and Heidi (Luke) Kling both of Gainesville, Florida;  and Harper and Dierks Wargo both of Chicago; as well as his great grandchildren, Logan and   Stella Gee;  and Addison and Isabel Kling; He is also survived by his younger brother, Butch (Michelle) Wargo of Ottawa; as well as many wonderful nieces and nephews. 

  He was preceded in death by his parents; his sisters, Jeanne Cavanaugh and Lorraine Wahl; and his brothers, Bobby, Jerry and Danny “Harvey” Wargo.

  Born and raised in Streator, Duner attended St. Stephen’s Grade School and graduated from Streator High School. He was a former member of St. Stephens Church.

  In 1961, Duner was drafted into the US Army and stationed at Fort Knox, Kentucky where he starred as a 3rd baseman, winning the coveted 2nd Army Fastpitch Softball Championship.

  He continued to play ball on many teams in the very competitive Streator Mens Softball League. Duner also excelled at bowling and in 1963 was named Bowler of the year.

  A bodyman by trade, he worked at Auto Beauty Center where he eventually became owner.  Duner also loved gardening and was widely recognized as "The Tomato King of Streator", supplying friends and restaurants with his delicious red treasures. He was a true blue die hard Cubs, Fighting Irish and Chicago Bears football fan. He also loved to cheer on and support his grandchildren and great grandchildren in their many sporting events. In his retirement years he enjoyed spending time in his garage with family and friends discussing sports, tomatoes, life, and derbies.  Duner could be heard saying that he wasn't a rich man in terms of money, but that he was truly rich in the blessings of his loving family and many wonderful friends.  Duner was a quick-witted, kind-hearted,  beautiful soul who truly loved to laugh and enjoy life.  He will be missed beyond measure by those who knew and loved him.

  Memorials may be directed to the St. Jude’s Children’s Hospital.

  Online condolences and remembrances may be shared with the family at www.solontelford.com.